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The M3 has always been a well-balanced convergence of performance hardware, such as a high-revving engine, stiff sport suspension, vicelike brakes, tasteful body modifications, and discrete badging. BMW‘s motorsport background was evident in the M models, and the M3 was the most affordable of the bunch.

The third-gen 3 Series (E36) was introduced in 1992. While Europe got an M3 that year, America had to wait three more years to slip behind the wheel of the line’s high-sport version. BMW brought in 2953 ’94 M3s, but sold them as ’95s.

For ’95, the M3 coupe used a 3.0-liter 24-valve DOHC inline-six-cylinder engine. This sonorous, rev-happy powerplant made 240 horses at 6000 rpm, with max torque coming in at 225 lb-ft at 4250. This was less than the 286-horsepower Euro-spec motor, but significantly better than the standard 325is’ 189-horse six.

The M3 lineup expanded in ’97 with the U.S. introduction of the four-door sedan. The engine had been enlarged to 3.2 liters in ’96, which upped torque 11 lb-ft to 236. While all M3 coupe models used a five-speed manual, the M3 sedans came with rowable gears or an optional five-speed automatic. Rarest of the M3s are the Lightweights sold in ’95 and ’96, although only 122 of these upgraded-performance coupes made it to the U.S.

A Lux edition was available in ’95-’97, replete with eight-way power seats, cruise control, upgraded leather, and special wheels. The sedan was replaced by a convertible in ’99, the last year the E36 M3 was sold.

A car that amply rewarded good driving, the M3 thrived on an owner’s attention to proper maintenance. Problematic items include the water pump used on ’95, ’96, and some ’97s. It had a plastic impeller that tended to fail after 60,000 miles. Replacement pumps with metal impellers are available, however. All M3s should be checked for cylinder compression, and a cooling system pressure check performed to ensure the radiator neck isn’t cracked. Check that there are no overrev codes in the computer. Automatic car washes should be avoided, as the engine-management computer is susceptible to flooding. Balky shifting of the manual transmission is often the result of worn tranny mounts.

BMW brought more than 35,000 M3s to the U.S. between 1995 and 1999. Unfortunately, many have been thrashed beyond belief or at least “well enjoyed.” An M3 will deliver years of spirited driving, as long as it’s properly maintained by a qualified BMW mechanic. Paying extra for a well-cared-for, low-mileage M3 will yield a more satisfying experience.